Prospective Cross-sectional Study Research Articles

Prevalence and severity of depression and anxiety in infertile female patients attending an academic hospital in central South Africa

Background. Infertility has an incidence of 15 - 20% in South Africa (SA). It may lead to the development of psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression. Objective. To determine the prevalence of depression and anxiety among infertile women attending the Infertility Clinic at a tertiary hospital in central SA. Methods. In this prospective analytic cross-sectional study, information captured included sociodemographic variables such as age, employment status, type and duration of infertility, marital status, type of marriage and education level. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) test were used to screen for depression and anxiety, respectively.Results. In total, 100 of 108 infertile women completed all the questionnaires correctly. Forty-two (42.0%) of the patients were >35 years and 58.0% were married, with five (8.6%) being in a polygamous marriage. Fifty-three (53.0%) women had never been pregnant before. The prevalence of depression was 53.0%, with 45.0% of these patients showing moderate to moderately severe levels of depression. The level of education was significantly associated with depression (p<0.025). Half of the participants (50.0%) screened positive for anxiety, with 12 (24.0%) having severe anxiety. In total, 40.0% of the participants screened positive for both anxiety and depression. No statistically significant association was observed between depression or anxiety and age, duration of infertility, marital status and employment status. Conclusions. Depression and anxiety disorders are common and often underdiagnosed in women undergoing infertility treatment. Practitioners should screen for these conditions at the initial patient presentation and refer patients for psychological support.

Assessing clinical and metabolic responses related to hyperlipidemia, MASLD and type 2 diabetes: sleeve versus RYGB

ObjectiveBoth Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) are effective at inducing weight loss, but more information is needed on their comparative effectiveness at improving clinical/biochemical outcomes related to the presence of hyperlipidemia, metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), or type 2 diabetes (T2D) at baseline. Here we aimed to assess this in real-world practice. MethodsThis is a prospective cross-sectional and cohort study of 142 patients who underwent RYGB or LSG as per clinical practice. Clinical/biochemical data were collected at baseline, prior to surgery and 12 months post–bariatric surgery. Liver biopsy was performed during surgery to diagnose MASLD. The main outcome was 12-month changes in lipid parameters, mainly total cholesterol, between types of surgery. Results: A total of107 participants underwent RYGB and 35 underwent LSG. Both groups were similar at baseline except for a higher proportion of males and waist circumference in the LSG group. At 12 months postsurgery, RYGB versus LSG resulted in a significantly lower body mass index, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein. However, alanine aminotransferase was significantly lower in those who underwent LSG. In subgroup analyses RYGB was superior at improving lipid-related parameters in those with hyperlipidemia, whereas LSG was superior at reducing alanine aminotransferase in those with MASLD. ConclusionsRYGB versus LSG leads to greater reductions in body mass index and lipid parameters, especially in those with hyperlipidemia, whereas LSG showed greater improvements in liver enzymes in those with MASLD.

Endothelium-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Expressing Intercellular Adhesion Molecules Reflect Endothelial Permeability and Sepsis Severity.

Currently, clinical indicators for evaluating endothelial permeability in sepsis are unavailable. Endothelium-derived extracellular vesicles (EDEVs) are emerging as biomarkers of endothelial injury. Platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule (PECAM) and vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin are constitutively expressed endothelial intercellular adhesion molecules that regulate intercellular adhesion and permeability. Herein, we investigated the possible association between EDEVs expressing intercellular adhesion molecules (PECAM+ or VE-cadherin+ EDEVs) and endothelial permeability and sepsis severity. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were stimulated with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) directly or after pretreatment with permeability-modifying reagents such as angiopoietin-1, prostacyclin, or vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to alter TNF-α-induced endothelial hyperpermeability. Endothelial permeability was measured using the dextran assay or transendothelial electrical resistance. Additionally, a prospective cross-sectional observational study was conducted to analyze circulating EDEV levels in patients with sepsis. EDEVs were examined in HUVEC culture supernatants or patient plasma (nonsepsis, n = 30; sepsis, n = 30; septic shock, n = 42) using flow cytometry. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used for comparisons between 2 groups. Comparisons among 3 or more groups were performed using the Steel-Dwass test. Spearman's test was used for correlation analysis. Statistical significance was set at P < .05. TNF-α stimulation of HUVECs significantly increased EDEV release and endothelial permeability. Pretreatment with angiopoietin-1 or prostacyclin suppressed the TNF-α-induced increase in endothelial permeability and inhibited the release of PECAM+ and VE-cadherin+ EDEVs. In contrast, pretreatment with VEGF increased TNF-α-induced endothelial permeability and the release of PECAM+ and VE-cadherin+ EDEVs. However, pretreatment with permeability-modifying reagents did not affect the release of EDEVs expressing inflammatory stimulus-inducible endothelial adhesion molecules such as E-selectin, intracellular adhesion molecule-1, or vascular cell adhesion molecule-1. The number of PECAM+ EDEVs on admission in the septic-shock group (232 [124, 590]/μL) was significantly higher (P = .043) than that in the sepsis group (138 [77,267]/μL), with an average treatment effect of 98/μL (95% confidence interval [CI], 2-270/μL), and the number of VE-cadherin+ EDEVs in the septic-shock group (173 [76,339]/μL) was also significantly higher (P = .004) than that in the sepsis group (81 [42,159]/μL), with an average treatment effect (ATE) of 79/μL (95% CI, 19-171/μL); these EDEV levels remained elevated until day 5. EDEVs expressing intercellular adhesion molecules (PECAM+ or VE-cadherin+ EDEVs) may reflect increased endothelial permeability and could be valuable diagnostic and prognostic markers for sepsis.

Genetics of 67 patients of suspected primary ciliary dyskinesia from India.

Data are limited on the genetic profile of primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) from developing countries. Here, we report one of the first study on genetic profile of patients with suspected PCD from India. In this prospective cross-sectional study, we enrolled 162 children with suspected PCD. We recorded clinical features, relevant laboratory tests for PCD and performed whole exome sequencing (WES). We are reporting 67 patients here who had positive variant/s on WES. We had 117 variants in 40 genes among 67 patients. Among the 108 unique variants, 33 were categorized as pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP). We had nine novel variants in out cohort. The 29 definite PCD cases, diagnosed by composite reference standards, had variants in 16 genes namely LRRC6/DNAAF11 (5), DNAH5 (3), CCDC39 (3), HYDIN (3), DNAH11 (2), CCDC40 (2), CCDC65 (2) and one each DNAAF3, DNAAF2, CFAP300, RPGR, CCDC103, CCDC114, SPAG1, DNAI1, and DNAH14. To conclude, we identified 108 unique variants in 40 genes among 67 patients. The common genes involved in definite cases of PCD in Indian patients were LRRC6, DNAH5, CCDC39, and HYDIN. Our findings suggest a need to develop a separate genetic panel for PCD in the Indian population.

Association of anxiety and depression with breast implant illness syndrome (BII): a prospective observational cross-sectional study

Introduction: Breast Implant Illness syndrome (BII), popularly known as “silicone disease”, has no defined pathophysiology or recognition by the WHO. It consists of systemic symptoms such as joint pain, muscle pain, confusion, memory loss/cognitive problems, chronic fatigue, and immune diseases. In some more recent studies, anxiety and depression have been observed as an incident characteristic of the syndrome. Objective: It was to relate the appearance of anxiety and depression pathologies with the development of Breast Implant Illness syndrome in women with breast implants. Methods: To prepare the following prospective observational cross-sectional study, 132 women who had breast implants were interviewed and answered an online questionnaire with 18 questions about the breast implant that was disseminated through social networks. To obtain the data, questions about pre-operative and post-operative signs and symptoms were crossed, this data was subsequently struck and finally, another cross was carried out with the other unknown, symptoms were diagnosed by doctors. Results: The validation analysis of the questionnaire proposed in this study using Cronbach's alpha (α) statistical technique showed that the reliability rating was high, with alpha (α)=0.82. It was noted that 31% of women who did not have any characteristic signs and symptoms presented after placement and of these 22 women were diagnosed by doctors. And at the other intersection, it was clear that 25% presented depression after the placement of the breast implant and 23 of these women were diagnosed by doctors. Conclusion: It can be stated that anxiety and depression are pathologies associated with Breast Implant Illness syndrome.

The association between social risks and days at home for older veterans.

Many health systems are trying to support the ability of older adults to remain in their homes for as long as possible. Little is known about the relationship between patient-reported social risks and length of time spent at home. We assessed how social risks were associated with days at home for a cohort of older Veterans at high risk for hospitalization and mortality. A prospective cross-sectional study using a 2018 survey of 3479 high-risk Veterans aged ≥65 linked to Veterans Health Administration data. Social risks included measures of social resources (i.e., no partner present, low social support), material resources (i.e., not employed, financial strain, medication insecurity, food insecurity, and transportation barriers), and personal resources (i.e., low medical literacy and less than high school education). We estimated how social risks were associated with days at home, defined as the number of days spent outside inpatient, long-term care, observation, or emergency department settings over a 12-month period, using a negative binomial regression model. Not having a partner, not being employed, experiencing transportation barriers, and low medical literacy were respectively associated with 2.57, 3.18, 3.39, and 6.14 fewer days at home (i.e., 27% more facility days, 95% confidence interval [CI] 8%-50%; 42% more facility days, 95% CI 7%-89%; 34% more facility days, 95% CI 7%-68%; and 63% more facility days, 95% CI 27%-109%). Experiencing food insecurity was associated with 2.62 more days at home (i.e., 24% fewer facility days, 95% CI 3%-59%). Findings suggest that screening older Veterans at high risk of community exit for social risks (i.e., social support, material resources, and medical literacy) may help identify patients likely to benefit from home- and community-based health and social services that facilitate remaining in home settings. Future research should focus on understanding the mechanisms by which these associations occur.

Cognitive Dysfunction in Non-CNS Metastatic Cancer: Comparing Brain Metastasis, Non-CNS Metastasis, and Healthy Controls

Limited research has compared cognition of people with non-central nervous system metastatic cancer (NCM) vs. metastatic brain cancer (BM). This prospective cross-sectional study was comprised 37 healthy controls (HC), 40 NCM, and 61 BM completing 10 neuropsychological tests. The NCM performed below HCs on processing speed and executive functioning tasks, while the BM group demonstrated lower performance across tests. Tasks of processing speed, verbal fluency, and verbal memory differentiated the clinical groups (BM < NCM). Nearly 20% of the NCM group was impaired on at least three neuropsychological tests whereas approximately 40% of the BM group demonstrated the same level of impairment.

Zero-echo time MRI: an alternative method for the diagnosis of urinary stones in children.

To evaluate the potential of zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) in the assessment of urolithiasis and compare ZTE-MRI with computed tomography (CT) in pediatric patients. This was a single-center, prospective cross-sectional study conducted between April 2023 and December 2023. 23 patients (12 girls, 11 boys; mean age: 12.3, range 1-18) with urinary tract stones detected on non-enhanced abdominal CT were enrolled. The images were evaluated independently by two radiologists for the presence, and number of stones in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. In the second session, two radiologists evaluated whether urinary tract stones could be detected by MRI compared to CT, and the maximum diameter of the stones was measured. The CT and MRI results were compared with the Wilcoxon test. The agreement between the results of the observers was examined using Spearman's rho correlation coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient. A total of 58 urinary tract stones were detected by CT and 39 of these were detected by MRI. Most of the stones that MRI could not detect were < 5 mm and the detection sensitivity of MRI increased in correlation with stone size (p < 0.001). There was poor intermodality agreement for stones < 5 mm, substantial agreement for stones 5-10 mm, and almost perfect agreement for stones > 10 mm. Interobserver agreement for stone detection on MRI was almost perfect for stones > 10 mm and 5-10 mm and was substantial for stones < 5 mm. ZTE-MRI is a promising modality for detecting urinary stones without radiation exposure in children. Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging is a potential method for identifying urinary stones in children and other populations who are particularly sensitive to radiation. Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis. Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively. ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.

To Evaluate Efficiency of Various Coronary Artery Disease Risk Scores With Traditional Risk Factors in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography.

To analyze and compare various cardiovascular disease risk scores in Western Indian patients undergoing Coronary angiogram (CAG). In this prospective cross-sectional study, 1213 patients who underwent conventional coronary angiography; clinical risk profile and biochemical investigations were evaluated prior to undergoing CAG. Apart from the demographic information, 10-year absolute risk of having a major cardiovascular event (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction or stroke) was calculated for each patient using various available Traditional Risk Scores (TRS). The population was divided in low, intermediate and high-risk categories for each of these scores. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension (41.8%) and diabetes mellitus-II (26.9%) were the two most prevalent risk factors in our study population. A higher risk value for all these TRS was more likely to be associated with obstructive coronary artery disease (OCAD) on CAG. Patients with high risk (≥20% for 10-year) QRESEARCH (QRISK3) score category had higher number of patients with obstructive CAD (49.6%) as compared to high risk category of risk score for those with high Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score (46.6%) or risk Framingham (FRS CHD) score (29.2%) and risk atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) score (30.1%) (P < 0.0001). A higher TRS was more likely to be associated with obstructive CAD, with the highest predictability being with QRISK3 (QRISK3 score 60.9%, GRACE score 54.9%, FRS-CHD score 34% and ASCVD score 42.1% respectively; P < 0.0001). A substantial study population (27.4%) cannot be identified using any of these TRS and hence a need of indigenous or modified risk scores is proposed. QRISK3 score was most efficacious for predicting obstructive CAD in our Indian study population on CAG. A higher risk score also correlated with the number of vessels involved on coronary angiogram. A substantial obstructive CAD patient could not be identified using traditional risk scores hence need for an indigenous or modified score.

Three-month treatment outcome of medication-overuse headache according to classes of overused medications, use of acute medications, and preventive treatments

Medication overuse headache (MOH) is a chronic headache disorder that results from excessive use of acutely symptomatic headache medications, leading to more frequent and severe headaches. This study aims to assess the 3-month treatment outcomes in MOH patients, focusing on the types and usage of overused medications, as well as preventive treatments. This prospective cross-sectional study analyzed the treatment outcomes of 309 MOH patients from April 2020 to March 2022. Patients were advised to discontinue overused medications immediately and offered preventive treatments based on clinical judgment. Data on headache characteristics, medication use, and impact on daily life were collected at baseline and 3 months. Results showed overall significant improvements in headache-related variables in patients completing the 3-month treatment follow-up. The median number of headache days per month decreased from 15 days at baseline to 8 days after 3 months (p < 0.001). Patients who overused multiple drug classes demonstrated increased disability levels (mean Headache Impact Test-6 score: 62 at baseline vs. 56 at 3 months, p < 0.01). Those who continued overusing medications reported more days of severe headache (mean 18 days at baseline vs. 14 days at 3 months, p < 0.05) and greater impact (mean Migraine Disability Assessment score: 35 at baseline vs. 28 after 3 months, p < 0.05) compared to the baseline. Differences in headache outcomes were evident across different preventive treatment groups, with generalized estimating equation analyses highlighting significant associations between clinical characteristics, overused medication classes, and preventive treatments. Most MOH clinical features significantly improved after 3 months of treatment. However, notable interactions were observed with certain clinical presentations, suggesting possible influences of overused medication classes, usage patterns, and preventive treatment types on MOH treatment outcomes. This study underscores the importance of individualized treatment strategies and the potential benefits of discontinuing overused medications.

Liver fibrosis and liver stiffness in patients with obesity and type 1 diabetes.

To compare hepatic stiffness and fat fraction in patients with obesity and type 1 diabetes (T1D) with type 2 diabetes (T2D) with a similar body mass index (BMI). In this prospective cross-sectional study, 90 participants with T1D (BMI 30.5 ± 4.5 kg/m2; diabetes duration 20.5 ± 9.8 years; HbA1c 8.2% ± 1.4%) and 69 with T2D (BMI: 30.8 ± 4.6 kg/m2; diabetes duration: 11.7 ± 7.8 years; HbA1c: 7.3% ± 1.4%) were included. Liver fat fraction and stiffness were examined by magnetic resonance imaging and elastography, respectively. Logistic regressions were used to evaluate associations with biomedical variables. The mean liver stiffness score in patients with obesity and T1D was 2.2 ± 0.5 kPa, while in T2D it was 2.6 ± 0.8 kPa (P < .001). The liver fat fraction in patients with obesity and T1D was 3.7% ± 6.3%, and in T2D it was 10.6% ± 7.9% (P < .001). Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) was present in 13.3% of patients with T1D and in 69.6% of patients with T2D, whereas fibrosis was suggested in 7.8% of patients with T1D and in 27.5% of patients with T2D. Liver stiffness was four times higher in patients with T2D compared with those with T1D (odds ratio = 5.4, 95% confidence interval: 2.1-13.6, P < .001). Aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), triglycerides and the android-to-gynoid ratio were associated with elevated fat fraction in both cohorts. AST and GGT were associated with elevated liver stiffness in both cohorts. Patients with obesity and T1D had lower liver fat and liver stiffness compared with those patients with T2D, despite similar levels of BMI, a longer duration of diabetes and worse glycaemic control.

The impact of iron deficiency on patients under evaluation for colorectal cancer, a prospective cross-sectional study

Background and objective Iron deficiency affects more than 60% of colorectal cancer patients at the time of diagnosis. Iron deficiency ultimately leads to anemia, but additionally, iron deficiency might impact other domains of colorectal cancer patients’ health and well-being. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of iron deficiency on fatigue, quality of life, cognition, and physical ability in patients undergoing evaluation for colorectal cancer. Methods Multicenter, prospective, observational cross-sectional study (2021–2023). Fatigue was the primary outcome, measured using the Focused Assessment of Cancer Treatment-Anemia questionnaire (FACT-An). Quality of Life, Cognition, Aerobe capacity, mobility, and peripheral muscle strength were tested as secondary outcomes. Multivariate analysis was performed to estimate the impact of iron deficiency on all outcomes. Results Two hundred and one patients were analyzed, 57% being iron deficient. In multivariate regression analysis, iron deficiency was not associated with fatigue: FACT-An (r = −1.17, p = 0.57, 25% CI: −5.27 to 2.92). Results on quality of life, cognition, and mobility were non-significant and with small regression coefficients. Iron deficiency showed a nearly significant association with reduced hand-grip-strength (r = −3.47 kg, p = 0.06, 25%CI −7.03 to 0.08) and reduced 6 min walking distance (r = −40.36 m, p = 0.07, 25%CI: −84.73 to 4.00). Conclusion Iron deficiency in patients undergoing evaluation for colorectal cancer was not associated with fatigue, quality of life, or cognition, but might affect aerobic endurance and peripheral muscle strength to a degree that is clinically relevant.

Study of Clinical Spectrum of Neurological Manifestations in HIV/AIDS Seen at Tertiary Referral Hospital in India

Objectives: The pandemic caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is one of the fastest growing health problems in the world today. Neurological manifestations of HIV infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are being seen in a frequency that is parallel to the increasing number of new cases seen the world over. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that 36.7 million people in the world are infected with HIV. Neurological manifestations of HIV disease can be seen in 20% of outpatients in HIV clinics and almost half of HIV patients being treated as in-patients. Of the various subtypes of HIV, subtype C is responsible for more than 50% of HIV1 infections causing rapidly growing epidemics in India. The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) To evaluate the prevalence of neurological manifestation in HIV-positive patients admitted to a tertiary referral Hospital in India. (2) To describe the neurological manifestations documented. (3) To find the possible predictors of neurological manifestations. Material and Methods: This study was a single centre prospective cross-sectional study in which out of 200 HIV/AIDS patients, 40 patients with neurological manifestations were analysed over a period of 18 months. They were interviewed and evaluated with particular reference to neurological manifestations, and were classified using the WHO staging system. Results: Amongst the studied population of 40 patients, 16 patients (40%) manifested as tuberculous meningitis (TBM) with or without brain tuberculomas, followed by seven patients (18%) presented with peripheral neuropathy and six patients (15%) presented with central nervous system (CNS) vasculitic or multi-infarct state. Cryptococcal meningitis was seen in five patients (12%), efavirenz-induced psychosis/seizure seen in one patient, while HIV-induced polymyositis, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, acute inflammatory demylinating polyradiculoneuropathy, AIDS dementia complex and CNS toxoplasmosis were seen in one patient each respectively. One patient presented with dual opportunistic infection with coexistence of cryptococcal and tuberculous meningitis. Conclusion: Headache with or without vomiting, seizures and altered sensorium were the most common neurological symptoms. Fundus abnormalities, meningeal signs, gait abnormalities, cranial nerve dysfunction and hemiplegia were the most common neurological signs. New-onset headache was a significant predictor of the occurrence of neurological complications. Opportunistic infections such as TBM and Cryptococcal meningitis were most commonly observed.

The incidence of fractures in children under two years of age: a systematic review

BackgroundEpidemiological research on fractures in children under the age of two is of great importance to help understand differences between accidental and abusive trauma.ObjectiveThis systematic review aimed to evaluate studies reporting on the incidence of fractures in children under two years of age, excluding birth injuries. Secondary outcome measures included fracture location, mechanisms of injury and fracture characteristics.MethodsA systematic literature review (1946 to February 7th 2024), including prospective and retrospective cohort studies and cross-sectional cohort studies, was performed. Studies including children from other age groups were included if the actual measures for those aged 0–2 years could be extracted. We also included studies restricted to infants. Annual incidence rates of fractures were extracted and reported as the main result. Critical appraisal of was performed using the Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies.ResultsTwelve moderate to good quality studies met eligibility criteria, of which seven were based on data from medical records and five were registry studies. Studies investigated different aspects of fractures, making comprehensive synthesis challenging. There was an overall annual fracture incidence rate of 5.3 to 9.5 per 1,000 children from 0–2 years of age; with commonest sites being the radius/ulna (25.2–40.0%), followed by tibia/fibula (17.3–27.6%) and the clavicle (14.6–14.8%) (location based on 3 studies with a total of 407 patients). In infants, the reported incidence ranged between 0.7 to 4.6 per 1,000 (based on 3 studies), with involvement of the clavicle in 22.2% and the distal humerus in 22.2% of cases (based on 1 study). Only a single metaphyseal lesion was reported (proximal humerus of an 11-month-old infant). Fracture mechanisms were detailed in four studies, with fall from chair, bed, table, own height or fall following indoor activities causing 50–60% of fractures.ConclusionsThere is a paucity of good quality data on fracture incidence in children under the age of two. Larger, prospective and unbiased studies would be helpful in determining normal pattern of injuries, so that differences from abusive trauma may be better understood.

Diversity engagement is associated with lower burnout among anesthesia providers

Study objectiveThe high prevalence of burnout among anesthesia providers is a well-established, multifactorial problem that deserves systematic attention and action. This study aimed to identify how perceptions of institutional diversity engagement are associated with burnout and perceived stress among anesthesia personnel. DesignSurvey-based prospective cross-sectional study. SettingAnesthesiology department that encompasses community and academic hospitals in a large healthcare system. ParticipantsOne-hundred and sixty anesthesiology department employees over 18 years of age (i.e. attending physicians, trainees, advanced practice providers and others). MeasurementsA web-based survey with 39 questions measured: demographics, diversity engagement, burnout, and perceived stress. The primary objective was to assess the association of burnout and diversity engagement and the mediating effect of perceived stress in this relationship. Our secondary objective was to measure the prevalence of burnout, diversity engagement, and perceived stress. Burnout, diversity engagement, and perceived stress were measured using a validated two-item survey developed from the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey, the 22-item Diversity Engagement Survey (DES), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4), respectively. Main resultsMean scores were 4.4 (SD 3.2) for burnout, 78.3 (SD 14.3) for DES, and 4.8 (SD 2.6) for perceived stress. Higher DES score predicted lower burnout (β = −0.11 [95% CI −0.14, −0.08], P < 0.001) and lower perceived stress (β = −0.05 [95% CI −0.08, −0.03], P < 0.001). Mediation analysis estimated the total effect of burnout (β = −0.10, P < 0.001), which comprised the direct effect of diversity engagement (β = −0.08, P < 0.001) and indirect effect of perceived stress (β = −0.02, P = 0.0048). ConclusionsThe perception of increased institutional diversity engagement is associated with reduced burnout among anesthesia providers, in part due to a reduction in perceived stress. Implementing interventions at the leadership level that improve diversity engagement may reduce the negative effects of perceived stress and burnout, potentially improving patient care.

Prevalence and associated factors of schistosomiasis among pregnant women in northern Senegal

BackgroundSchistosomiasis remains a public health concern worldwide. It is responsible for more than 240 million cases in 78 countries, 40 million of whom are women of childbearing age. In the Senegal River basin, both Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma mansoni are very prevalent in school-age children. However, there is a lack of information on the burden of schistosomiasis in pregnant women, which can cause complications in the pregnancy outcome. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of schistosomiasis in pregnant women.MethodsWe conducted a prospective cross-sectional study of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at the health center of the Senegalese Sugar Company and at the hospital of Richard Toll between August and December 2021. The urine and stool samples collected were examined using microscopy techniques and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to detect the presence of S. haematobium and S. mansoni. The urines were previously tested using urine reagent strips to detect hematuria and proteinuria. Socio-demographical, clinical, and diagnostically data were recorded by the midwife and the gynaecologist. The data were analyzed using a logistic regression model.ResultsAmong the 298 women examined for the infection by microscopic, 65 (21.81%) were infected with urogenital schistosomiasis, 10 (3.36%) with intestinal schistosomiasis, and 4 (1.34%) were co-infected with both types of schistosomiasis. Out of the 288 samples tested by qPCR, 146 (48.99%) were positive for S. haematobium, 49 (35.51%) for S. mansoni and 22 (15.94%) for both species (co-infection). Pregnant women having microscopic haematuria and proteinuria were significantly more infected (p < 0.05).ConclusionThis study has revealed a high prevalence of schistosomiasis in pregnant women in Senegal. The qPCR allowed us to detect more cases compared to the microscopy. There is a need to conduct more studies to understand the real burden of the disease and to set up a surveillance system to prevent pregnancy-related complications.

Clinical Study of HELLP Syndrome and It's Outcome at Pravara Rural Hospital, Loni

Background: HELLP syndrome, a severe pregnancy complication characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count, occurs in 0.5 to 0.9% of all pregnancies and in 10–20% of severe preeclampsia cases. It poses significant risks to both mother and fetus, presenting diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Patients often experience epigastric or right upper quadrant pain, hypertension, proteinuria, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, sudden weight gain, and headaches. HELLP syndrome typically occurs in the second and third trimesters (27-37 weeks) and 15–30% of cases present postpartum. The exact causes remain unclear but may involve placental origins, autoimmune factors, gene mutations, or fatty acid oxidation disorders. Aims and Objectives: To analyze the clinical profile of HELLP syndrome cases and to assess maternal and perinatal outcomes, including morbidity and mortality. Material and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Obstetrics and Gynecology department at Pravara Rural Hospital, Loni, involving 45 patients with severe preeclampsia and eclampsia above 28 weeks of gestation diagnosed with HELLP syndrome. Patients were admitted to the ICU, and detailed histories and examinations were recorded. Patients were divided into two groups: those with HELLP syndrome (Group A) and those without (Group B). Results: Group A had a higher representation in the 20-22 age bracket, while Group B had more members aged 22-24. Cesarean sections were more common in Group A, whereas vaginal deliveries were more frequent in Group B. Blood pressure readings were higher in Group A. Maternal complications, such as abruption placentae, DIC, hepatic infarction, acute renal failure, and ascites, were more frequent in Group A, as were neonatal complications like IUGR, preterm delivery, neonatal thrombocytopenia, and RDS. Conclusion: The study reveals significant differences between patients with and without HELLP syndrome. Group A included younger patients, more first-time mothers, and a higher incidence of complications and mortality. These findings highlight the need for tailored management strategies for severe preeclampsia/eclampsia, especially in those with HELLP syndrome, to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Association of Urinary Incontinence with Sensory-Motor Performance in Women with Multiple Sclerosis.

The relationship between somatosensory and motor components of urinary incontinence in individuals with MS has not been extensively addressed. The study was aimed at investigating the association of urinary incontinence severity with motor and sensory performance in women with multiple sclerosis (MS). A cross-sectional single-center prospective study was conducted in 337 women with MS. The severity of MS symptoms was assessed using the SymptoMScreen questionnaire. The urinary incontinence status of the participants was evaluated using the Urinary Incontinence Inventory (UDI-6) and the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7). Physical performance was considered with the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and the 5-Times Sit-to-Stand (5TSTS) test. In addition, the sensory performance of the individuals with MS was queried using the Somatosensory Amplification Scale (SSAS) and Sensory Sensitivity Scale (SeSS). The UDI-6 (r=0.685, p<0.05) and IIQ-7 (r=0.759, p<0.05) correlated highly with SymptoMScreen. Among the physical performance measures, TUG (r=0.012, p<0.05) and 5TSTS (r=0.096, p<0.05) were weakly associated with UDI-6, but not statistically significantly. Similarly, there was a low correlation between IIQ-7 and TUG (r=-0.005, p<0.05) and 5TSTS (r=0.068, p<0.05). UDI-6 (0.360, p<0.05) and IIQ-7 (0.378, p<0.05) correlated moderately with SASS. On the other hand, SeSS had a low correlation coefficient with UDI-6 (0.305, p<0.05) and IIQ-7 (0.272, p<0.05). The results revealed that sensory performance was more associated with urinary incontinence in women with MS than physical performance. The urinary incontinence severity was also related to MS symptoms (bladder control, walking, spasticity, stiffness cognitive function). Future studies should consider the potential impact of sensory performance on urinary incontinence and focus on explaining the mechanism behind this relationship.

Association between Visceral Adipose Tissue Metabolism and Cerebral Glucose Metabolism in Patients with Cognitive Impairment.

Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) dysfunction has been recently recognized as a potential contributor to the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study aimed to explore the relationship between VAT metabolism and cerebral glucose metabolism in patients with cognitive impairment. This cross-sectional prospective study included 54 patients who underwent 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) brain and torso positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), and neuropsychological evaluations. VAT metabolism was measured by 18F-FDG torso PET/CT, and cerebral glucose metabolism was measured using 18F-FDG brain PET/CT. A voxel-based analysis revealed that the high-VAT-metabolism group exhibited a significantly lower cerebral glucose metabolism in AD-signature regions such as the parietal and temporal cortices. In the volume-of-interest analysis, multiple linear regression analyses with adjustment for age, sex, and white matter hyperintensity volume revealed that VAT metabolism was negatively associated with cerebral glucose metabolism in AD-signature regions. In addition, higher VAT metabolism was correlated with poorer outcomes on cognitive assessments, including the Korean Boston Naming Test, Rey Complex Figure Test immediate recall, and the Controlled Oral Word Association Test. In conclusion, our study revealed significant relationships among VAT metabolism, cerebral glucose metabolism, and cognitive function. This suggests that VAT dysfunction actively contributes to the neurodegenerative processes characteristic of AD, making VAT dysfunction targeting a novel AD therapy approach.

Characteristics of patients with burn injuries managed at a tertiary care centre

IntroductionBurn injuries are becoming a growing burden, negatively impacting both individuals and society. They affect a person’s health and lead to psychosocial and economic problems. This study evaluates the prevalence, characteristics, and short-term outcomes of patients with burn injuries admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Northern Sri Lanka. MethodsThis prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on patients with burn injuries admitted to Tertiary care centre Jaffna over six months in 2023. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Ethics Review Committee of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna. Baseline characteristics and clinical features during hospitalisation were recorded. Categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square test, with post hoc Tukey tests conducted where applicable. ResultsThis study included 57 patients aged 1 to 88 years, with a mean age of 35.19 ± 21.16 years. Most participants were female (53.4 %), and most had completed secondary education (62.1 %). Approximately 65.5 % were employed in unskilled jobs, with the remainder in skilled professions. Accidental burns were the most common cause (72.4 %), with 84.5 % of injuries occurring at home, though suicide-related burns accounted for 24.1 %. Flame-related burns constituted 50 % of injuries, with first-degree burns being the most common (44.8 %). The availability of first aid significantly influenced outcomes, with 74.1 % receiving assistance, primarily through removing clothing (43.8 %) and using running water (15.8 %). A combined approach of care was received by most patients (52.7 %), while 8.8 % were hospitalised in the plastic and reconstructive surgery department. Many patients had burns covering less than 10 % of their body surface area (46.6 %). ConclusionThe findings of this study on patients with burn injuries underscore the importance of understanding the causes of burns, administering appropriate first aid, recognising different injury types and severities, assessing the total burn surface area, and tailoring patient treatment. These insights are crucial for informing prevention strategies and healthcare planning, aiming to mitigate the impact of burn injuries and improve patient outcomes.